Finding new clients for any new business is hard, but finding Virtual Assistant clients can be a little tougher than most. Why? Well the VA industry as a whole is a fairly new concept and with so many internet scams out there, people are really hesitant about giving their personal details to someone they will most likely never meet in person.
The first step in getting new clients for your business is building credibility and establishing some type of legitimacy. This can be done by:
- Getting a professional website – If you’re working 100% virtual or have no office space, this is vital. Having a professional online space (your website) will help build your case for running a professional operation with prospective clients.
- Provide references or referrals – Do you have past clients, current clients, past employers or anyone that can vouch for you be a stand-up person?
- Create online awareness – Get active on social media platforms, blog, interact regularly on forums. No matter what methods you choose to incorporate in your online brand building, make sure you are consistently present.
- Display samples – Do you have samples of your work? This is a great way for prospects to get a feel for the quality of work you provide.
Where are your Virtual Assistant clients hiding?
- Coffee shops – Many one person run business owners frequent coffee shops just to get out of the house and to be around other people. This is a great place to meet new people and build relationships. Most small coffee shops even have a place where you can leave business cards and other promotional pieces. Get out there and start talking.
- Local Chamber of Commerce – Joining your local Chamber of Commerce is also a great way to prospect. You get to network with other business owners and maybe even showcase your expertise by offering to speak to the group and educate them about the benefits of using virtual support.
- Volunteer – Volunteering is another great way to get your business name out there. Donate your time to a good cause and watch the good karma it leads your way.
- Speaking – If you’re okay being in front of an audience, speaking is another way to attract new clients. You many not get paid for the speaking gig itself, but you get to put your name out there in front of a captive audience.
This concludes Part 1 of how my finding new clients series. Subscribe to my blog to get an email update when Part 2 is ready. As always comments and feedback is welcomed so feel free to put your thoughts below.